Peer mentoring in the Placement experience search

At De Montfort University, within the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Media, students seeking a year-long placement experience in the graduate workplace participate in peer mentoring during the placement search. This mentoring experience enhances the learning journey of individuals acting in the role of mentee and mentor, delivering benefits for the mentee and mentor (Hayman et al., 2022). Supporting and empowering placement searchers, mentoring presents an opportunity to learn from peers who have previously experienced the process, successfully securing an innovative placement year. Mentees engage with practical tips and advice, guidance and encouragement, whilst mentors develop leadership, mentoring and communication skills, enhancing reflection to further articulate their placement experience (Proctor, 2012).

Hayman, R., Wharton, K., Bruce-Martin, C., & Allin, L. (2022). Benefits and motives for peer mentoring in higher education: an exploration through the lens of cultural capital. Mentoring & Tutoring: Partnership in Learning, 30(2), 256-273. https://doi.org/10.1080/13611267.2022.2057098 Procter, C. (2012). Peer mentoring to secure student placements. Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning, 2(2), 121-131. https://doi.org/10.1108/20423891211224603